Reviewed by: Matilda Marseillaise

Review by Matilda Marseillaise | 06 March 2026

Le Faux-French Cabaret made its South Australian debut at Adelaide Fringe 2026. This delightful French-themed cabaret is a must-see for Francophiles and French people alike

 

Set in the intimate atmosphere of Bavarde, next to Woodville Town Hall, you’ll feel like you stepped into a Parisian cabaret bar. French posters adorn the walls, and the seating is cabaret style, around round tables. The lighting is dim. Grab a drink at the bar, make yourself comfortable and strap in for plenty of laughs and a lot of sex appeal.

 

A magnifique cast of four hold the stage for this hour variety show. And it’s an hour that goes all too quickly! The French-themed Moulin Rose showgirls open Le Faux-French Cabaret with a high energy dance number to Ça Plane pour moi, which sets the mood for the rest of the show. In this opening number, Lucy and May are dressed in the most stereotypical of French outfits, wearing the striped Breton tops, berets, and accessorised with a baguette and cigarette. The Moulin Rose showgirls reappear throughout the night, breaking up the other acts, each time in seemingly more and more fabulous costumes.

 

As the name suggests, this is a show that is not trying to be French but rather playing on the well-trodden French clichés. It doesn’t take itself seriously and is great fun.

 

Singer Lola Raine hilariously debunks the romanticised idea that Paris is perfect in every season, all while singing I love Paris made famous by Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra. She too has costume changes throughout the night, into more and more stunning dresses as the night progresses. And French household name Ben Noir (thanks to his appearance on France has got talent) plays on the clichés of the French lover, with references to his big baguette and wanting to fill women with happiness (remember the French don’t pronounce their H - say it in your head). He also has a very impressive, cheeky act with a towel -  but we will leave it at that so as not to ruin any surprises.

 

The cast all have fantastic, at times comical, rapport with each other but also with the audience, where interaction feels natural and is warmly received.

 

Between sensational showgirl dancing to belting vocals with a side of some sexy French seduction and tease, Le Faux-French Cabaret is a show not just for Francophiles, but also French people, or frankly anyone who appreciates the art of cabaret. There are just two shows left, both this Saturday. Book now - don’t miss it!

4.5 CROISSANTS